In actuality, Paradise Valley started out as a rural location spotted with dude ranches, and residents rode horses to visit neighbors. Although some horse properties remain, most of the five-acre parcels have been divided into smaller (yet still large) lots. Agents will tell you that you won’t find much of a commercial aspect in real estate. Instead of malls full of retail stores, you’re more likely to find medical offices, schools, churches, and resorts.
One big selling point for brokers and agents is how close Paradise Valley is to everything. From luxury boutiques and world-class retailers to neighborhood cafés, everything is nearby. Paradise Valley Mall, Biltmore Fashion Park, and Scottsdale Fashion Mall are within a few miles, and Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, and AJ’s Find Foods will help get your pantries stocked.
If dining is in your plans, you’ll find a whole range either within the town limits or just on the outskirts. El Chorro Lodge is a landmark of Paradise Valley. Located on Lincoln Avenue just east of Tatum Boulevard, the Lodge originally opened in the 1930s as the Judson School for Girls and later became the indoor-outdoor bar and eatery it is today. The views from the expansive patio at sunset are too stunning for words to describe. Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain Resort and Spa, Montelucia Resort and Spa, and JW Marriott Camelback Inn are all within moments of one another, and each offers five-star dining and accommodations as well as world-class golf courses.
Paradise Valley Country Club was established in 1953 and recently underwent a $28 million renovation to its more than 200 acres. It’s such an exclusive club that to apply you must have two current members who’ve been with the club two or more years submit your name. In fact, the current membership fee is unpublished.